IOWA MUSICYOUR BACKSTAGE PASS
Discover the sound of Iowa.
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The Iowa Music Awards celebrate the diverse musical talents that thrive across our state. Created to encourage today’s artists, honor the pioneers who paved the way, and inspire the generations that follow.
Founded by Antonio “Tone Da Boss” Chalmers and presented by T1 Entertainment, the IMA ceremony unites our community to uplift Iowa’s music culture and create lasting impact.
Our stage celebrates artists and the collaborating industries behind them: photography, videography, audio engineering, production, graphic design and more.
Photo by shotxdorey · 2025GROWING. UNITING. CELEBRATING.
The inaugural Iowa Music Awards took place October 30, 2022 at the Olympic Southside Theatre. A VIP cocktail hour, red carpet and meet-and-greet set the stage for live music, remarks by State Senator Liz Bennett and 20 trophies across 20 categories.
The celebration moved to Riverside Casino and doubled its reach. Sharane Calister opened with the national anthem, Council Member Ashley Vanorny delivered opening remarks, and performances by Essence and Alisabeth Von Presley helped spotlight artists from across the state.
More than 1,200 people came together for our third year. Kevin Burt, Lucas Burrington and Hometown Heroes were honored, with opening remarks from local mayors. Hosted by Nia Wilder and Tevin Jones, the night included powerful performances and a shared “Use My Voice” moment with artists on stage together.
Our fourth annual show sold out Burlington Memorial Auditorium at full capacity. City Manager Chad Bird delivered opening remarks, Entre Luché and August Gonzales hosted, and performances included Tevin Jones & The Kickback Band, Klazik, Jordan Beem, Dan Medeiros, Coldsaint and more.
Historical figures and milestones supplied in the IMAs 5 pitch deck.
WE NEED YOU
Our goals are to expand the voting Academy, grow submissions and attendance, honor past award-winners and celebrate artists from all over Iowa. Future broadcast opportunities are an ambition, with no broadcaster confirmed.
Submit, encourage another artist, join the Academy conversation, attend, sponsor, present, perform and share. It takes all of us to keep the awards diverse, equitable, representative and entertaining.